Qudus SalihuEverton’s midweek clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Hill Dickinson Stadium ended in utter disbelief as the Toffees were reduced to nine men, with Jack Grealish receiving one of the most “bizarre” red cards in recent Premier League history. What began as a promising night for David Moyes’ side quickly spiraled into chaos during the final ten minutes of a tense 1-1 draw.
The drama ignited in the 83rd minute when Everton defender Michael Keane, who had earlier scored the opening goal, was sent off following a VAR review. In a surreal turn of events, Keane was judged to have committed violent conduct for pulling the hair of Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare during an aerial challenge. The dismissal left the Goodison faithful incensed, but the atmosphere turned truly toxic just moments later.
In the 90th minute, Jack Grealish—currently on loan at Everton from Manchester City—found himself at the center of the storm. Having already been booked for dissent in the immediate aftermath of Keane’s red card, Grealish drew a foul in his own half. However, as rookie referee Thomas Kirk blew his whistle, Grealish reacted by sarcastically applauding the official. Kirk, officiating only his second-ever Premier League match, showed no leniency and immediately brandished a second yellow card, followed by the red.
It was a staggering moment that left Grealish stunned and Moyes “apoplectic” on the touchline. The England international, known for his flair and occasionally fiery temperament, had managed to get sent off without committing a single physical foul. The dismissal marked the first red card of Grealish’s Premier League career, compounding a miserable evening where Everton saw their lead evaporate thanks to a Mateus Mane equalizer.
Despite being down to nine men and facing nine minutes of agonizing stoppage time, Everton managed to cling to a point thanks to a world-class save from Jordan Pickford. However, the fallout from the “bizarre” officiating and the loss of two key players to suspension will likely dominate the headlines for weeks to come.
Qudus Salihu
Mustapha Sheidu
Rabiu Aminu
